The Effect of Traditional Single Growing Rod Technique on the Growth of Unsegmented Levels in Mixed-Type Congenital Scoliosis.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

OBJECTIVES

To present outcomes concerning patients with early-onset mixed-type congenital scoliosis (EOMTCS) treated with the traditional single growing rod (TSGR), focusing on the growth of unsegmented levels (USLs).

METHODS

Patients with EOMTCS who underwent TSGR and had a minimum of 4 USLs, 4 distractions, and 3-year follow-up were enrolled. Spine radiographs before and after index surgery and at the latest follow-up were evaluated. The length of the concave and convex side of USLs and thoracic parameters were measured. The absolute value and percentage of growth were calculated.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients (mean age, 7.3 ± 2.8 years) were enrolled. The average follow-up duration was 4.9 ± 1.2 years, during which time 84 distractions and 8 final fusions were performed. The average number of USLs was 6.3 ± 2.2. The total and annual percent growth of concave side of USLs was significantly higher than convex side (32.2 ± 13.3% vs. 23.9 ± 9.5%, p = 0.007; 6.8 ± 2.7%/year vs. 5.1% ± 2.2%/year, p = 0.007, respectively). The concave-to-convex ratio of USLs increased from 58.6 ± 6.4 ± 7.6% at baseline to 68.8 ± 9.3% at the latest follow-up (p < 0.001). The Campbell's space available for lung ratio increased from 74.9 ± 11.1% at baseline to 89.6 ± 7.0% at the latest follow-up (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with EOMTCS, unilateral repetitive lengthening with TSGR can accelerate the growth of the concave side of USLs and improve the symmetry of the thorax.